Tracking down scammers necessitates a united effort. This was emphasized by Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, during the National Scam Awareness Week held in Suva.
Mr. Kamikamica pointed out that this initiative marks a crucial step in Fiji’s battle against fraudulent activities, with backing from the governments of Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union (EU). Throughout National Scam Awareness Week, new programs were introduced by the UN, the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU.
In his opening remarks, Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Shaheen Ali, highlighted the significance of international cooperation in strengthening Fiji’s digital resilience. He stated, “The invaluable support from our partners, Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union, has been instrumental in raising awareness and identifying strategies to enhance Fiji’s digital defenses.” He also noted that the commitment to Fiji through the UNCDF’s Pacific Digital Economy Programme underscores the critical importance of these partnerships.
The EU’s commitment to enhancing Fiji’s digital and financial capabilities was also a central theme during the opening session. Mr. Pedro Velazquez, head of the Section for Civil Society, Gender, Human Rights, and Health, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to fostering digital resilience across the Pacific region. He explained that their goal is to strengthen digital and financial abilities at community, industry, and policy levels.
“The same commitment is evident here in Fiji. This is why the European Union is collaborating with the governments of Australia and New Zealand through UNCDF,” Mr. Velazquez remarked. “This is also why we have been strong supporters of this inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.”